Embodied Past Experiences — Our History Lives Inside of Us, the Future is in Our Hands

We often think of our past as something behind us, a series of events that have come and gone, leaving only memories in their wake. However, as a somatic therapist and coach with over two decades of experience, I’ve come to understand a profound truth: our past experiences aren’t just behind us—they are  inside us.

We have long recognized that the past shapes the future. You can probably come up with several examples:  because X happened then Z happened. Some with short-term consequences, others with long-term consequences.

We also have come to see that experiences and events we have in our past shape our beliefs, behaviors, and attitudes, which can impact our present and future actions. For example, traumatic or negative past experiences can create psychological and emotional wounds that can affect our ability to form healthy relationships and make positive choices.

However… the power of our history is even more far-reaching than that!

The Embodiment of Past Experiences

Every experience we’ve had, every interaction, every joy, and every hurt, has left its mark not just in our minds, but in our bodies. These experiences shape our beliefs, influence our emotions, and guide how we relate to ourselves and others. Essentially, we carry our history within us, embodied in our very being.

Consider for a moment:

• The tension you feel in your shoulders when facing a challenging situation
• The way your heart races when you’re about to speak in public
• The warmth that spreads through your chest when you see a loved one

These physical responses or body sensations aren’t random—they’re the result of your past experiences, your learned responses to the world around you.

Recognizing the Clues

The clues to our past are evident in our daily lives:

1. 1. Beliefs: The core beliefs we hold about ourselves and the world are often formed through our early experiences. These beliefs act as filters through which we interpret new experiences.
   2. Emotional Responses: The way we react emotionally to situations is often a reflection of past experiences. An “overreaction” to a current event might be rooted in a similar past experience.
   3. Relationships: Our patterns in relationships—how we communicate, how we handle conflict,  or how we express affection—are often learned behaviors from our past.
   4. Physical Sensations: Chronic tension, pain, or other physical sensations can be the body’s way of holding onto past experiences that haven’t been fully processed.

You Have the Power to Shape Your Future

While it’s true that our past has shaped us, it’s equally true that our future is in our hands. By recognizing how our past lives within us, we gain the power to change our present and future stories.

Here’s how:

1. 1. Mindful Awareness: The first step is becoming aware of how your past manifests in your present. Notice your reactions, thought patterns, and physical sensations.
   2. Acceptance: Accept that your past experiences have influenced you, without judgment. This isn’t about assigning blame but understanding.
   3. Integration: Work on integrating your experiences. This might involve therapy, somatic practices, or other forms of self-work that help you process and release stored experiences.
   4. Choice: As you become more aware and integrated, you gain the ability to choose new responses. You can challenge old beliefs, create new patterns, and write a new story for yourself.

“Dream Big, Start Small” here’s the one thing you can do today.

Use the following exercise to connect with how your past is held within your body and consciously shift it for a more empowered future.

• • Find a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed.
  • Close your eyes and take 3 deep, slow breaths, allowing yourself to relax fully. On each exhale, release any tension you’re carrying in your body.
  • Slowly bring your awareness to different parts of your body, starting from your head and moving down to your toes. Notice any areas of tightness, discomfort, or heightened sensation. Pay attention to how certain emotions or memories may surface as you focus on these areas.
  • Once you’ve found an area of tension or discomfort, ask yourself: “What past experience or emotion might be living here?” Don’t overthink it. Let your body guide the answer.
  • Gently place your hand over the area of tension. Acknowledge the emotion or memory that surfaces and say to yourself: “I see you. I recognize the story you hold.” Then, take a deep breath and, as you exhale, consciously release the grip of this past event from your body. Imagine letting it go with the breath.
  • With your hand still on the area, imagine what you want to feel here instead. Perhaps it’s peace, strength, or confidence. As you breathe in, visualize this new intention filling that part of your body, rewiring the space.
  • Before ending the exercise, thank your body for the wisdom it holds. Take a few final breaths, anchoring yourself in the present moment.

After the exercise, write down any insights that came up. How does this exercise help you feel about the connection between your past and the power to shape your future?

By bringing awareness and compassion to the areas where your history lives, you’re paving the way for healing and transformation. Your body holds your story, but you get to choose how the next chapter unfolds.

Remember, while your past is inside you, it doesn’t define you. It has shaped you, yes, but you have the power to reshape yourself. By understanding how you’ve embodied your experiences, you open the door to change.

Your past may be inside you, but your future? That’s in your hands. And with awareness, acceptance, and intentional action, you can create a future that aligns with your truest self. Are you ready to take control of your future?  I’m here to guide you through the baby steps that get you to where you want to be in the easiest possible way. The free downloadable Introduction to my Stepping Forward is a great place to start.